A fishtail braid looks intricate, but it uses only two sections of hair, which makes it one of the easiest braids to learn. It works on medium to long hair and suits everything from a casual weekend to a wedding.
Here’s how to do a fishtail braid step by step, how to make it last and how to keep it clean if you want to wear it for a few days. For styling ideas, see our fishtail braid hairstyles.
What You Need
- A brush or wide-tooth comb
- A small clear elastic
- Texturizing spray or dry shampoo for grip (optional)
- Bobby pins (optional)
How to Do a Fishtail Braid
- Brush and prep your hair. Detangle fully. Freshly washed, silky hair can slip, so a light mist of texturizing spray or dry shampoo makes the strands easier to hold.
- Split your hair into two equal sections. Gather your hair at the back of your neck (or over one shoulder for a side fishtail) and divide it into a left and a right section.
- Take a thin strand from the outside of the left section. Keep it small, about a quarter to half an inch (0.5 to 1.3 cm) wide.
- Cross it over to the right section. Bring the strand over the top of the left section and add it to the inside of the right section.
- Repeat on the other side. Take a thin strand from the outside of the right section, cross it over and add it to the inside of the left section.
- Keep alternating. Continue taking thin strands from the outer edge of each side and crossing them over to the other. Keep your hands close to the braid and the tension even.
- Use smaller pieces toward the ends. Hair thins toward the ends, so taking smaller strands keeps the pattern even.
- Secure the end. Stop about an inch (2.5 cm) from the ends and tie off with a clear elastic. To hide it, wrap a small piece of hair around the elastic and pin it underneath.
- Pancake for volume (optional). Gently pull the outer edges of the braid to widen it for a softer, fuller look.
Tips for a Neater Fishtail
- Thinner strands give a more detailed braid. Thicker strands are faster but look chunkier.
- Start with a ponytail if you’re a beginner. Tying your hair first keeps the sections from slipping, and you can snip the elastic out afterward.
- Practice over your shoulder so you can see what your hands are doing before trying it at the back of your head.
- Set flyaways with a little hairspray or a smoothing cream.
Can You Wash Your Hair in a Fishtail Braid?
A fishtail braid is usually a one- to three-day style, so most people simply take it out and wash as normal. If you want to keep it in a little longer, you can freshen it without undoing it:
- Use dry shampoo at the roots to absorb oil between washes.
- Rinse gently if needed. Dilute a small amount of shampoo in water, apply it to your scalp and massage with your fingertips, then rinse with lukewarm water without rubbing the braid.
- Squeeze, don’t rub. Press out water with a microfiber towel or an old T-shirt to avoid frizz.
- Dry completely. Let it air-dry or use a blow-dryer on low heat so the braid doesn’t stay damp.
- Take it out gently. Remove the elastic, loosen the braid from the bottom up with your fingers and then brush through from the ends.
How Long Does a Fishtail Braid Last?
Usually one to three days, depending on your hair texture and how you sleep. To help it last, sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase or cover your hair with a satin scarf.
Final Thoughts
Once you get the rhythm of crossing thin strands from side to side, a fishtail braid takes just a few minutes. Try it over one shoulder first, then move on to Dutch fishtails, half-up styles and buns. If you like braids, also try our guides to the Dutch braid and the French braid.
